How Chest Pain Can Be a Warning Sign of Heart Problems

Chest pain can often appear suddenly, and whether it’s a sharp stab or a dull ache, it can be both painful and frightening. While not every instance of chest pain is heart-related, it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying heart issue. That’s why it’s vital to have it checked as soon as possible, as ignoring chest pain could lead to serious, life-threatening complications, especially if it’s linked to the heart. If you have experienced chest pain, it is crucial to book an appointment at a cardiology clinic for a professional consultation and quick diagnosis. In this post, we’ll explore why chest pain can be a warning sign of heart problems and why you should seek expert cardiology care without delay.

Why Does Chest Pain Occur?

Chest pain can have several causes, but when it’s related to the heart, it often signals that something isn’t functioning properly. It can feel like tightness, pressure, heaviness, or a burning sensation in the chest, and some people describe it as a dull ache whilst others feel a sharp or crushing pain. The discomfort can also spread to the neck, jaw, back or arms, and might also be accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea or dizziness.

These symptoms can vary in individuals, which is why any unexplained or persistent heart pain should be taken seriously. Understanding the potential heart-related reasons behind chest pain can help highlight the urgency of getting it assessed promptly. Below are three common heart-related causes of chest pain:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) - Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries supplying the heart become narrowed or blocked, usually due to a build-up of fatty deposits. This reduces the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart, especially during activity or stress. It often results in angina, which feels like a tight, squeezing chest pain or discomfort.

  
  

• Pericarditis - Pericarditis is the inflammation of the thin sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. It typically causes sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens when lying down or taking deep breaths. Other symptoms may include mild fever, fatigue, or general discomfort. Though not always serious, it requires medical evaluation to rule out complications.

• Aortic Stenosis - Aortic stenosis is a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed, limiting blood flow from the heart to the body. It can also lead to chest pain, breathlessness, or light-headedness during physical activity. If left untreated, it may lead to severe complications such as heart failure, irregular heartbeat, or sudden cardiac arrest.

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Who is at the Highest Risk of Experiencing Chest Pain?

Individuals at the highest risk of experiencing chest pain are typically those with existing heart conditions or cardiovascular risk factors. This includes people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease. Lifestyle choices also play a major role in chest pain, as smokers, individuals who are overweight, and those who live a sedentary life are more likely to experience the symptoms.

Chest pain is especially common among older adults, with men over the age of 45 and women over 55 at greater risk of developing it. Poor diet, ongoing stress, and a lack of regular physical activity can further contribute to the likelihood of experiencing heart-related chest pain or complications.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay Getting Help for Chest Pain

If you experience chest pain, whether it’s a one-off occurrence or happens regularly, delaying medical attention can be extremely risky. While not all chest pain is heart-related, it can often be a sign of something serious, such as a blocked artery or inflammation. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of complications, particularly if the pain is linked to your heart.

It’s important to book an appointment at a cardiology clinic, where you can receive a full cardiac assessment by a medical professional. They’ll be able to rule out any heart-related causes of your chest pain and, if it is heart-related, provide the appropriate treatment promptly. Below we discuss three reasons why you should never delay getting help for chest pain:

• Increased Risk of a Heart Attack

Chest pain can be one of the first signs that your heart isn’t receiving enough blood. If ignored, the condition could worsen rapidly, leading to a full blockage of the arteries. This significantly increases the risk of experiencing a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest, both of which require urgent treatment.

• Permanent Heart Damage

When chest pain is caused by reduced blood flow, parts of the heart muscle may become damaged. If not treated quickly, this damage can become permanent and affect how well your heart functions. Long-term consequences may include heart failure, limited physical capacity, or reduced quality of life due to chronic symptoms, making early intervention crucial. 

• Missed Opportunity for Early Diagnosis

Heart-related chest pain often indicates a condition that can be managed if identified early. Prompt medical assessment allows for early intervention and diagnosis, potentially avoiding the need for invasive treatment later on. Delaying care may mean missing the chance for medication, lifestyle changes, or monitoring that could prevent more serious complications.

Chest Pain Diagnosis at Precision Health

If you have been experiencing chest pain recently, or have other symptoms that are concerning, book a consultation at our cardiology clinic at Precision Health. Our cardiac screenings can detect any potential heart problems early on and provide the diagnosis and rapid treatment you need. Benefit from fast, efficient, and comprehensive cardiac support from our expert medical professionals, ensuring that we can prevent serious events such as heart attacks and strokes.

With our expert cardiology care and fast access to results, you can take control of your heart health and act early if any concerns are found. Book an appointment online today, or feel free to contact our team and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.